Caradt researcher Michel Witter joins a discussion panel at the online conference 
Philosophy of Human-Technology Relations (PHTR) at the University of Twente between 4 and 7 November 2020.
Discussion panel
Michel joins the discussion panel about design, use and ethics of sensory augmentation technology. Sensory Augmentation technology is a sub-category of Human Enhancement technology which is already commercially available for widespread use. The technology expands the subjects’ perceptual field, creating new sensory experiences, such devices include: magnetic implants; navigational devices – NorthSense and feelSpace belt; and Augmented Reality devices. At this time little is known about the effects of the technology and no regulations have been made to direct its development and implementation. This panel will focus on the practical use of SA technologies, focusing on the ethical implications and effects of design.
Michel Witter will look at the use of situated design practices to gain better insight into the subjective experience of sensory substitution technology and relevant practical factors from contextual use. The other participants of the panel are Stephanie Gauttier who will analyse the ethical issues stemming from the use of sensory augmentation at work, be it by individual employees or teams. Imre Bard who will draw on interviews conducted with users of AR, offering insights into the lived experience of AR as an extension of users’ cognitive and perceptual toolkit. Lesley-Ann Daly (organiser) will focus on the use of critical and participatory design methodologies to create an ethical design framework for commercial Sensory Augmentation technologies.
Philosophy of Human-Technology Relations Conference
The conference is a four-day digital event to explore the relations between humans and technologies at the intersection of philosophy, design, ethics, art, and engineering. To join, register on the site.
